Bianca Benson Of Digi Bee Design Studio On Five Things You Need To Create A Highly Successful Career As A Commercial Designer
An Interview With Athalia Monae
Curiosity. Staying curious about tools, trends, and people keeps you ahead of the curve — especially when it comes to emerging technologies like AI.
As a part of my series about the ‘Five Things You Need To Know To Create A Highly Successful Career As A Commercial Designer,’ I had the pleasure of interviewing Bianca Benson.
Bianca Benson is the Founder and Creative Director of DigiBee Design Studio, where she fuses artistry, strategy, and innovation to craft meaningful brand experiences. Her work spans from developing pitch-ready brand kits for mission-driven organizations to guiding companies through cohesive design narratives that inspire trust. An educator as well as an entrepreneur, Bianca also teaches graphic design at the university level, mentoring the next generation of creatives.
Thank you for joining us today! Can you share the story of what led you to pursue a career in commercial design?
Absolutely. I grew up surrounded by traditional arts like painting and drawing. It wasn’t until college, when I took my very first design course, that I truly stepped out of my shell. That class sparked something in me — it showed me how creativity could intersect with communication in a way I’d been searching for. That spark ultimately led me to launch DigiBee Design Studio, where I now get to blend creativity, strategy, and storytelling every single day.
What’s the most interesting or amusing experience you’ve had in your career so far, and what lesson did you learn from it?
One of the most impactful experiences was when I worked at a print shop in Washington, D.C., during the Obama era. We were producing materials for a White House congressional dinner. It may have felt like a small piece of a larger puzzle, but knowing that something I designed could end up in the hands of Congress — and even the President — was powerful. It taught me how design, even in its simplest forms like a program layout or typography, can carry influence on a much larger stage.
Do you have a favorite life lesson quote? Can you share a story about how it has been relevant in your life?
A mantra I live by is: “Your mindset has everything to do with everything.” It doesn’t matter the industry — your mindset determines whether you succeed or not. As a business owner, I’ve faced plenty of doubts and challenges. But shifting my mindset, seeing obstacles as opportunities, has kept me moving forward and allowed me to grow in this field.
As a successful business leader, which three character traits have been most crucial to your success? Can you share a story or example for each?
- Resilience. Design isn’t for the faint of heart. Projects shift, deadlines get tight, and feedback can be tough. Resilience is what helps me navigate the ups and downs of the business.
- Adaptability. Especially with the rise of AI, I’ve learned to embrace change rather than fear it. I now use AI as a supportive tool, amplifying my creativity instead of replacing it. This ability to pivot gives me an edge in a constantly evolving industry.
- Empathy. Great design isn’t just about how it looks; it’s about how it makes people feel. I approach every project with the user in mind, aiming to create visuals that connect on an emotional level while also being functional.
Can you describe a recent project you completed and what your specific contributions were?
I recently worked with a philanthropic organization that needed a cohesive brand identity. Their visuals were scattered, so I created a “pitch-ready” brand kit with strategic, trustworthy, and visually compelling collateral. By aligning their messaging and design, I helped them secure the funding they needed to advance their mission — a project I’m especially proud of.
How do you approach balancing aesthetics and functionality in your designs?
For me, aesthetics and functionality are like yin and yang — they can’t exist without one another. If something looks beautiful but is confusing, it fails as a design. If it’s functional but uninspiring, it doesn’t capture attention. My role as a designer is to ensure both elements work together seamlessly.
What is your design philosophy when it comes to commercial spaces?
My philosophy is simple: design should build trust at first sight. People make snap judgments within seconds, so the environment must feel welcoming, confident, and warm. When done right, design invites people to engage and connect with the space immediately.
Where do you draw your inspiration for your designs?
Inspiration comes from everywhere — nature, culture, my community, and even my daughter’s doodles at home. I also look at design trends and the work of other creatives. But most often, it’s my everyday environment that fuels my ideas.
What strategies do you use to ensure your designs meet the needs of the end-users?
I rely heavily on the design thinking process, which I also teach at the university level. It begins with empathizing with the user and defining their needs, then moves through ideation, prototyping, and testing. It’s not just about what looks good — it’s about what works.
How do you approach sustainability in your commercial projects?
Sustainability has two sides for me: environmental and strategic. On the environmental side, I lean into digital-first solutions and use recycled materials when printing is necessary. Strategically, I focus on creating timeless brands that don’t need constant rebranding — designs that last.
What impact do you think remote work and digital transformation will have on the design of commercial spaces?
Remote work is already reshaping design. The future will be hybrid — ensuring that a brand feels cohesive whether you’re in the office or on Zoom. Even something like a virtual background should align with the brand identity of the physical space.
What are the five things you believe are essential for creating a highly successful career in commercial design? Can you share a story or example for each?
- Curiosity. Staying curious about tools, trends, and people keeps you ahead of the curve — especially when it comes to emerging technologies like AI.
- Resilience. You will hear “no” and encounter setbacks. Resilience helps you push forward.
- Adaptability. Design constantly evolves. The industry today is nothing like it was 10 years ago, and adaptability keeps you relevant.
- Communication. Designers must translate visuals into language clients can understand. For example, when a client asks for a “different shade of blue,” communication skills help uncover what they truly mean.
- Empathy. Always put the human at the center of design. Empathy ensures your work is not just beautiful but meaningful and functional.
What role do you think commercial design plays in community building and social interaction?
Design is a connector. It creates spaces that feel welcoming and inclusive, whether it’s a storefront, nonprofit brand, or virtual event. Good design helps tell a larger story and fosters a sense of belonging.
Given your influence, if you could inspire a movement to bring the best results and solutions to the greatest number of people, what would it be?
I’d focus on the younger generation, especially those from underserved communities. The combination of AI and design offers enormous potential. If every young person had the tools to create brands and businesses with AI, it could empower communities and even build generational wealth. We’re at the very beginning of this shift, and I want them to be part of it.
How can our readers follow your work online?
Visit www.digibeedesignstudio.com or connect with me on LinkedIn at @bianca-jymayce-benson.
Thank you for your time and excellent insights! We wish you continued success.
Bianca Benson Of Digi Bee Design Studio On Five Things You Need To Create A Highly Successful… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.